Video: Nissan teams up with Amazon to bring new Alexa skill to 2018 Leaf

Video: NissanConnect Services Amazon Alexa

All-new connected car feature will allow some Nissan vehicles to be controlled with Amazon Alexa, a cloud-based voice service. Once it’s enabled and paired with a compatible Nissan vehicle, owners can use voice commands to remote lock/unlock, honk the horn, flash the lights and start or stop the engine depending on the model.

No one likes rummaging through a cluttered bag in search of their keys just so they can unlock their vehicle. And winter drivers are well aware of how frustrating it can be waiting for a car to warm up. But what if these basic car functions, as well as others, could be taken care of from inside one’s home? That’s the idea Nissan and Amazon are going for with the latest automotive skill for virtual personal assistant Alexa.

With Nissan Connected Services, available through the Amazon Skills Store, Nissan owners can use Alexa to remotely start their car, lock and unlock the doors, flash the lights, and honk the horn. With simple voice commands, one can finish up in the kitchen or take a few extra minutes lounging on the couch before having their car instantly ready go. For security purposes, a 4-digit pin will be required for certain functions.

The new skill will be released later this month, and can be used free of charge with select 2016, 2017, and 2018 model year vehicles. However, it requires an active subscription to Nissan Connected Services as well as a Nissan Portal Account.

Nissan says the technology will also be compatible with the 2018 Leaf which goes on sale early next year. 2011-2017 Leaf owners will also have access to the NissanConnect EV and Services skill which allows owners to check battery status, manage remote charging, and operate climate controls.

"Intelligent integration means helping our customers even when they are not behind the wheel," said Dan Teeter, director of Vehicle Connected Services for Nissan North America. "We are about bringing unexpected innovations to customers, and are excited to offer this technology to both existing and new Nissan owners."